The new N20's are shipped without the bail stock. I had no problem with either method. The last two feet is always a bear. I doubt it's related to how it runs at the top of the mast.

I'm not sure which system I like better. I'm concerned with chafe on the lines up there. I replace them every season for sure. The bail use to get bent sometimes and I would think it would fail eventually also.

6 or 1 or 1/2 dozen the other in my opinion.

Mike Hill
www.stlouiscats.com